Homemade Cinnamon Roll Donuts Recipe

Table of Contents

1. Cinnamon Roll Donuts Ingredients
2. Substitutions and Additions
3. How to Make Cinnamon Roll Donuts
4. How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Donuts
5. Storage
6. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
7. MORE RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE
8. JUMP TO RECIPE

Cinnamon roll donuts combine the tender, spiced layers of a cinnamon roll with the crisp, golden exterior of a classic fried donut. Using ready-made canned cinnamon rolls makes this an effortless and indulgent treat—perfect for weekend breakfasts, brunch gatherings, or a simple dessert fix. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, these donuts deliver irresistible cinnamon-sugar flavor and a gooey glazed finish.

If you enjoy homemade donuts, try other variations such as apple donuts, pumpkin spice mini donuts, or air fryer donuts for a lighter twist. These alternatives highlight how versatile donut recipes can be and how easily you can adapt store-bought dough into something special.

Cinnamon Roll Donuts Ingredients

You will need:

• 3½ to 4 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
• 12.4 ounces canned cinnamon rolls (8 count; choose your preferred brand)

Substitutions and Additions

Icing: For an extra-rich finish use canned cream cheese frosting or leftover homemade cream cheese icing.

Nuts: Finely chopped pecans or walnuts make a nice crunchy topping—sprinkle them on immediately after glazing so they adhere to the icing.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Pro Tip: If you prefer bite-sized treats, cut each cinnamon roll into pieces and fry them as donut holes. They cook faster and are a crowd-pleaser.

STEP ONE: Pour the oil into a 10-inch skillet and heat over medium-high. Use a candy or frying thermometer to monitor the oil temperature; aim for 325°F to 340°F (163°C–171°C). While the oil warms, prepare the cinnamon rolls.

STEP TWO: Open the can of cinnamon rolls and separate them. Keep the rolls mostly intact—press each one slightly flat so it cooks evenly. Reserve the icing packet for later.

STEP THREE: Create a donut shape by removing the center of each roll. Use a large piping tip, an apple corer, or a clean bottle cap to press out the middle and set aside the cut-out pieces for donut holes.

STEP FOUR: Pinch the outer seam of each roll so it is sealed—this prevents the donut from unraveling while frying.

STEP FIVE: Prepare a draining station: place a cooling rack over a baking sheet lined with paper towels to catch excess oil. A 9×13 baking dish lined with paper towels works well too.

STEP SIX: When oil reaches the correct temperature, carefully add 3–4 cinnamon rolls at a time. Fry for about 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to turn them gently and transfer cooked donuts to the prepared rack to drain. Fry the donut holes until golden as well—they’re quick and delicious.

STEP SEVEN: Once all donuts are fried and drained, open the icing packet. Spread the icing on warm donuts with a knife or offset spatula. If you prefer a thinner drizzle, warm the icing in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, stir, and pour over the donuts.

Pro Tip: Serve donut holes and whole donuts fresh—warm icing soaks in beautifully and intensifies the cinnamon flavor.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Donuts

These cinnamon roll donuts are perfect for holiday mornings, leisurely brunches, or as a decadent dessert. Top them with cream cheese icing, drizzle with caramel, or add a dusting of powdered sugar. Pair with a cup of strong coffee, spiced chai, or hot chocolate to complement the warm cinnamon notes.

Storage

On the counter: Store leftovers in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best the first day when warm and fresh.

Freezer/refrigerator: Because these donuts are fried and glazed, refrigeration or freezing is not recommended; they lose texture and become soggy when chilled for long periods.

Soft, sweet, and slightly crisp, cinnamon roll donuts capture everything you love about cinnamon rolls in a handheld fried pastry. They’re fast to make using canned rolls, and the results are indulgent enough to disappear within minutes at any gathering.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How should I store these cinnamon bun donuts?

Store them in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For best flavor and texture, enjoy them the same day.

Can I make donut holes from the scraps?

Yes—use the centers you cut from each roll or cut the rolls into pieces to make donut holes. They fry quickly; watch closely to avoid overcooking.

What oil is best for frying?

Neutral-flavored vegetable oil is ideal for frying at home. It reaches the proper temperature and won’t impart extra flavor to the donuts.

MORE RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE

• Air Fryer Cinnamon Rolls
• Easy 15-Minute Maple Bars
• Pumpkin Donut Holes
• Homemade Glazed Donuts